Planet Swans ArchivesWith no reserve keeper in the squad following the release of Andrew Marsh and Simon Cole already on his way, Flynn needs to bring in an experienced replacement with just youth keepers being his option at the moment.
Top of the wanted list would appear to be Farnborough keeper Tony Pennock. Pennock has trained with the Swans for the last couple of weeks and it was believed that had his side been knocked out of the FA Trophy yesterday then a move could have been on the cards. However, Farnborough won and it seems likely that they will want to retain their man.
Another stumbling block in this would be Pennock’s wages. We believe that he is one of the highest earners at the Conference club with a contract worth in the region of £900 per week for four years. Add to that signing on fees and expenses and you have figures that we just may not be able to match.
Another target would appear to be Cardiff reserve keeper Mark Walton. Now third choice at Ninian Park, he has not played for the Bluebirds since last season’s FAW Premier Cup Final where he kept a clean sheet against ourselves. Mark has previously been on the books at the Swans and there are family connections with the club too, through his father, Ron.
It is understood that Flynn has already enquired with Cardiff about his availablity but they were reluctant to release him at that time. Whether a fresh approach now would make a difference remains to be seen.
Walton would certainly provide the league experience needed for our position and at the age of 33 should still have the fitness levels required to play in the football league.
Flynn though has proved since he has been at the club that he is not prepared to leave any stone unturned as he builds his squad. He has brought in quality players to the club using his contacts and it remains to be seen who he brings in as a goalkeeping replacement.
There is better news for Swans fans though in that Roger should be fit for the Boston game a week on Tuesday. After being taken off yesterday, he declared himself immediately fit and it could well prove that a one-match suspension aids his fitness level.
One thing is certain that we should see a new face at the Vetch this week and my guess is it will be by Wednesday. That new face should make his debut in the first team on Saturday against Wrexham at the Vetch where everyone will be hoping that we can get back to winning ways. The club will also be hopeful of a crowd in excess of the 5,000 mark again as we all bid to try and get ourselves a little further away from the foot of the table.
